International
Migratory Bird Day 2003: A Call to Action to Protect Migratory Birds
and Their Habitats

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 6, 2003

Contact:Tom MacKenzie, 404-679-7291

Opinion-Editorial
from Sam D. Hamilton, Southeast Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service

This is a very
special year to celebrate migratory bird conservation in the Southeastern
United States. As we approach International
Migratory Bird Day on Saturday, May 10, we are reminded that
100 years ago President Theodore Roosevelt established the first National
Wildlife Refuge as a safe haven for migratory birds at Pelican
Island in Sebastian, Florida. President Roosevelt was astonished
by the rapid decline of migratory birds as these feathered friends were
forsaken--all in the name of fashion. Birds that once flew freely, singing
the arrival of spring, were now transformed into lifeless fashion accessories;
adornments for women’s hats..

In 1993, International
Migratory Bird Day was created to focus public attention on the need
for action to conserve birds and their habitats. International Migratory
Bird Day is an annual celebration of one of the most important and spectacular
events in the life of a migratory bird - - its journey between summer
and winter homes. Today, International Migratory Bird Day is recognized
in Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Central America. People throughout
these countries will join forces on May 10, to celebrate birds, as well
as educate others through experiences such as bird festivals and walks,
educational activities, and informative publications.

This year’s
International Migratory Bird Day theme: Birds - Catalysts for Conservation
- recognizes birds and their ability to inspire individuals to care
about the environment and the plight birds face as they make their long
journey from nesting grounds in North America to their non-breeding
destination in the Southern United States, South and Central America,
Mexico and the Caribbean.

People
everywhere will be celebrating the catalysts for conservation’s
journey this International Migratory Bird Day. There are several ways
you can join in helping migratory birds such as:

Attend or host
an International Migratory Bird Day festival. Go to http://birds.fws.gov/imbd
and click on “Events/Festivals” to learn about an event
near you.

I hope you will
join me on Saturday, May 10, to celebrate International Migratory Bird
Day and the legacy that Teddy Roosevelt began 100 years ago when he
established the first National Wildlife Refuge.